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The focus of the search has moved after analysis of the Boeing 777’s flight revealed it was moving faster than previously thought, substantially reducing its range.

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As the hunt for clues to the disappearance of the plane continues, Mr Hishammuddin said investigations into the backgrounds of the two pilots had been expanded to include international law enforcement agencies.

“On the criminal aspect, we are working closely with international agencies,” he said.

But he refused to give more details three weeks after police raided the homes of the two men and took away computers and other items.

Mr Hishammuddin defended Malaysia’s handling of the issue, which has drawn strong criticism, particularly from China, where about two thirds of the passengers on board flight MH370 were Chinese.

Some critics have called Malaysia’s handling chaotic.

“History will judge us as being a country that has been very responsible,” he said.

Earlier, Malaysia Airlines called for an end to media speculation about the disappearance of MH370, saying it is distressing the relatives of those on board the plane.

Ahmad Jauhari Yahya, the airline’s chief executive officer, said the anguish and distress of the families "increases with each passing day, with each fresh rumour and with each false or misleading report."

"While we understand that there will inevitably be speculation during this period, we do ask people to bear in mind the effect this has on the families of all those on board," Mr Ahmad Jauhari said on Friday.

Mr Ahmad Jauhari said it was "very difficult to break the devastating news of the loss of the aircraft, especially to a large number of family members of passengers and crew on board, located in many places around the world".

The airline was criticised for informing some family members by SMS that the plane had crashed into the southern Indian Ocean.

"However the well being and feelings of family members are and have always been close to our hearts and mind," Mr Ahmad Jauhari said.

Mr Hishammuddin said cabinet had this week decided to step up its support for families of the passengers and crew.

Mr Ahmad Jauhari said the Australian government had given immense support to Malaysia Airlines, from coordinating the search in the Indian Ocean to offering an exemption of visa fees for the families of passengers and crew.

"Malaysia Airlines will be making arrangements to take family members to Perth, should physical wreckage be found," Mr Ahmad Jauhari said.